Electrofusion fitting and method of repairing pipes

Abstract

A fitting for repairing a leaking polymer pipe is provided. The fitting includes a first housing and a second housing that are sized to fit about the pipe. The first housing includes a first coil configured to increase in temperature in response to the application of an electrical current to fuse the first housing to the second housing and the pipe. The second housing includes a second coil on a first end and a third coil on an opposing end. The second and third coils configured to increase in temperature in response to the application of electrical current to fuse the second housing to the pipe. The fitting further includes a first seal coupled to the first housing and a second seal coupled to the second housing. The first and second seal forming a seal that prevents gas pressure from the pipe from interrupting the fusion process.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS[0001]The present application is a Nonprovisional Application of U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 62 / 248,507 filed on Oct. 30, 2015, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.BACKGROUND OF THE DISCLOSURE[0002]The subject matter disclosed herein relates to a fitting for use with plastic pipes, and in particular to a fitting that may be used to repair a leaking pipe.[0003]Plastic or polymer piping systems are used in a variety of applications, such as the delivery of natural gas to end customers. Due to a variety of factors, a hole in the pipe pressure boundary may occur creating a leak. To ensure continuous and reliable delivery of the natural gas, it is desirable to repair the leak once it is discovered. A temporary repair may be performed using a sealant and some type of clamp. For example, the repair may involve applying a sealant or epoxy material, covering the sealant and the pipe with an elastomer sheet and then clamp...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

The patent describes a fitting and method for repairing leaks in polymer pipes. The fitting includes two housings with interior surfaces that form semicircular channels to receive the pipe. The first housing has a first coil and a first seal, and the second housing has a second coil, a third coil, and a second seal. The first seal contacts the pipe when the first housing is placed on the pipe, and the second seal contacts the pipe when the second housing is placed on the pipe. The method involves placing the first housing on the pipe, coupling it to the second housing, and fusing them to the pipe by applying electric current to the first coil. The second housing is also fused to the pipe using electric current to the second coil and third coil. The technical effect is the provision of a reliable and effective repair method for polymer pipes that is simple to use and can easily be adapted to different pipe sizes and leak locations.

Problems solved by technology

Due to a variety of factors, a hole in the pipe pressure boundary may occur creating a leak.

It should be appreciated that this permanent repair process may take some time to perform and is disruptive to the end customers since they temporarily lose their access to natural gas.

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